Put down those forks because the mere mention of "best" (fill in the food) is bound to spark a battle. Two blogs have thrown down the gauntlet, one pronouncing the best ramen and the other best pizza. Art of Pizza, Pequod's and Piece get kudos in Chicaogist's list of 20 best places. The blog doesn't even mention the old Chicago standards Giordano's, Gino's East or Lou Malnati's. Thirteen joints throughout the metro area got nods for their noodles from Serious Eats. That blog assigned points for noodles, broth, toppings and overall satisfaction. The list has some familiar names—Slurping Turtle, Yusho and Oiistar.

Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas, the duo behind Alinea, Next and Aviary, are adding to the family with another beverage spot. Mr. Kokonas, the money guy to Mr. Achatz's culinary contributions, revealed to microblog "Aviary is Haunted" that another "drinks-only place" is in the works to ideally open by the end of 2014. Mr. Kokonas said "it won't be what you expect at all." He also said that Aviary may adopt a pre-paid reservation system.